Today’s symbol of living well and a way to express personal style and creativity is the monogram. They are everywhere-totes, napkins, linens, towels, stemware, tableware, chairs.

Seen as a nostalgic gesture to grandparents and family heirlooms, the revival of monograms suggests a return to acknowledging identity, our past and present. Some contend that monograms are a Southern obsession but I see this customization as everywhere but especially appreciated in that region of the US. Monograms are a way to touch the past. You can scour the flea markets and find a treasure or start your own collection.

Here are 5 tips to consider about monograms:

1. Select a letter style that suits the object. By this I mean linen napkins are more formal than plaid so choose accordingly. Towels, with their thickness, often are better with a single letter.
2. Restrain yourself as you add monograms to your interior. I love chair backs but not every chair; but on a simple china plate, yes.
3. Monograms make great gifts. Recently, for my daughter’s birthday, I sent monogrammed cocktail napkins. Guest towels are another option.
4. Surround a monogram in a symbol. This is a classic detail for a throw pillow, like a wreath or outline of a house.
5. Consider monograms an investment. Remember the flea market comment and know monogrammed napkins last a long time. “Ivory hemstitched dinner napkins with a gold monogram are the little black dress of tabletop”, Jane Scott Hodges of Leontime Linens.